The crew of a speedboat were given a reminder by Swanage Coastguard not to go out to sea without being properly equipped after their boat broke down and had to be rescued by the Swanage Lifeboat.
When the engine of the speedboat failed, the crew rang ‘999’ and asked for the coastguard but the mobile phone line kept dropping out. The lifeboat launched at 4.59 pm on Monday 6th July 2020 but without clear information it was difficult for the crew to locate the speedboat.
Stricken boat had drifted fast in the ebb tide
It was thought it was east of Old Harry Rocks but it turned out that the stricken boat had drifted fast in the ebb tide and the lifeboat finally found it past Dancing Ledge.
After checking that everyone was ok, the speedboat was taken in tow back to Swanage, secured to the jetty at the boat park and the three crew were met by the volunteers from Swanage Coastguard.
Swanage Coastguard said:
“The boat had little safety equipment and only a mobile phone to raise the alarm. Thankfully their ‘999’ call was received by the coastguard but once below Anvil Point communication was lost. The lack of life jackets, anchor, rope and clothing were all points raised.
“Be prepared and ensure before you take your boat out, check that you have the correct safety equipment.”
